ECHL: Augusta Hockey Takes Shape With Lynx Reveal

At a special event held at the Augusta Marriott Convention Center last night, Augusta’s newest ECHL franchise unveiled its name and branding ahead of the team’s inaugural 2027-28 season. For many fans, though, the announcement represented far more than a new expansion team. It marked the return of a hockey identity that already carries significance throughout the Southeast. The Lynx name immediately reconnects the city to its hockey roots while introducing a new era for professional hockey in Augusta.

A Familiar Name Returns to Georgia Hockey

The Augusta Lynx identity was developed with community involvement through a public naming process that allowed fans to help shape the franchise’s future. The organization also revealed a new logo designed to reflect both the region and the future direction of hockey in Augusta.

The Lynx name also reconnects the city with its professional hockey history. Augusta previously hosted an ECHL franchise under the Lynx name from 1998 through 2009, with the team playing its home games at the Augusta-Richmond County Civic Center.

Bringing back the Lynx identity creates an instant connection for longtime Georgia hockey fans while introducing a new era for professional hockey in Augusta. Rather than starting from scratch, the franchise returns with a recognizable name that already carries meaning throughout the Southeast hockey community.

For fans in Atlanta, Savannah, and throughout the Southeast, the Lynx’s return adds another regional rivalry and strengthens hockey’s growing footprint in Georgia.

New Ownership, New Arena, New Era

The franchise is owned by Tim Tebow and David Hodges, with operations managed by Zawyer Sports & Entertainment. Augusta will begin play during the 2027-28 ECHL season in the new Augusta Arena, a 10,500-seat venue currently under construction in downtown Augusta. The arena is expected to become one of the premier hockey venues in the region and aims to continue strengthening professional hockey’s presence in the Southeast.

The addition of Augusta also continues the ECHL’s steady expansion in southern markets, where fan support has grown over the last several years.

What Comes Next

While the team name and branding are now official, several major announcements are still ahead. The organization will eventually unveil its NHL and AHL affiliations, coaching staff, jerseys, and mascot while preparations continue toward puck drop in 2027.

For now, though, the biggest takeaway is simple: hockey is officially returning to Augusta. And for Georgia hockey fans, that is a pretty significant moment.